Before applying, gather all of the personal, work, and medical information you will need; a list of what Social Security will ask about can be found here.

An application for Social Security Disability Benefits can be submitted online here. Certain people can apply for Supplemental Security Income online here. For either type of benefits, you can also call the closest Social Security office and set up an appointment for someone to help you complete the application. Find your local SSA field office by zip code here.

Your application for disability benefits is first sent to DDS - Disability Determination Services, part of the Michigan DHHS. An “examiner” will order and review your medical records and may consult with a doctor.

You may be asked to attend a consultative examination - an evaluation by a doctor chosen by Social Security. You will likely be asked to fill out more forms about your everyday functioning and your work history.

After about 6-9 months, you will get a decision in the mail approving or denying your claim. If your claim is denied, do not get discouraged! Many winnable claims are denied at the application stage.

You have 60 days to file a request for reconsideration. Social Security will ask if you have new medical records and if your condition has changed. Then, another examiner in the same office will review your file and order any new records. This will generally take 3-6 more months. Very few claims are approved at this stage, so if you get another denial, again, do not be discouraged!

The next step is a hearing before an administrative law judge.